Evaluating Indonesia’s National Stunting Reduction Program through the Discrepancy Evaluation Model: A Systematic Literature Review (Evaluasi Berbasis Model Discrepancy terhadap Program Nasional Penanggulangan Stunting di Indonesia: Studi Literatur Sistematis)

Abstract

Stunting reduction is a national priority in Indonesia due to its long-term impact on human capital and development outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the Discrepancy Evaluation Model (DEM) in assessing gaps between national standards and the actual implementation of stunting reduction programs in Indonesia. The research adopts a systematic literature review approach following the PRISMA guidelines and is complemented by bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer. Data were collected from 21 academic articles and policy reports published between 2015 and 2025. The selection process involved identification, screening, eligibility assessment, and inclusion. Thematic analysis was conducted based on the four stages of DEM: planning, input, process, and output. The main findings indicate that DEM is effective in identifying structural and operational discrepancies, while also promoting context-based innovations such as mobile Integrated Health Post Posyandu services and culturally adapted nutrition cadre training modules in remote areas of Eastern Indonesia. Bibliometric analysis revealed that “discrepancy” and “stunting” are central keywords in the scholarly network. The study concludes that DEM holds strong potential as an evidence-based, adaptive, and accountable policy evaluation tool. The implication suggests the need for its integration into national evaluation systems, along with improved evaluator capacity and enhanced intersectoral data quality.